MRI technologists operate big tube-like machines that use a magnetic field and radio waves to make images of patients’ organs, tissue and bones. These images help doctors diagnose certain medical issues like aneurysms, strokes, tumors and heart attack damage, among other conditions.

MRI technology is Teri Blair’s second career. "I was in data processing way back when," she says, but then she married a Marine, moved around several times and had kids. In her early 30s, she decided to go into health care. She was thinking about nursing, but decided instead on radiography. "Interestingly, I’m back working at computers, but I’ve never regretted the move," says Blair, an MRI technologist at the Mayo Clinic.

Interacting with patients is a big part of the job too. "Basically we’re asking [patients] not to move for 30 minutes to an hour in a strange, scary environment," Blair says. For that reason, MRI technologists should be good communicators and passionate about patient care. She also says that good MRI techs are assertive, attentive and detail-oriented.

Growth in this job is driven by an aging population, who will increasingly require MRI techs to operate and maintain diagnostic equipment after bone fractures and breaks caused from osteoporosis.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7.7% employment growth for MRI technologists between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 3,200 jobs should open up.

MRI technologists can get their associate degree in radiography from a program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. They can then specialize in MRI technology while on the job. After they meet certain criteria – didactic education, clinical hours, ethical standards – they can sit for their certification exams through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

Another on-ramp to the profession is to complete a formal magnetic resonance imaging training at the outset (without going the radiologic technology route) and then taking the certification exams through the ARRT or the American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists. MRI technologists have to complete continuing education courses to keep their certification up-to-date. Some states also require these professionals to get licensed.